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PVT. WILLIAMS Obituary
Keith Michael Williams was born in Visalia, CA on December 18, 1994, to Frankie Williams and Debbie Tuttle.
Keith was the youngest of three and was fondly known as "Keefers" or "The Boy".
Keith attended Crestwood Elementary, Royal Oaks and Linwood Elementary, La Joya Middle school and graduated from El Diamante High School in 2011. Keith participated in Football, Drum Line, El Diamante Link Crew, and was part of the Homecoming Court 2013. Keith was a SCICON camp counselor and was an ASA softball umpire. Keith enjoyed dove hunting, attending pow-wows, and any activity that put him in motion - long boarding, snowboarding, skiing, and surfing. Keith loved listening to music and hanging out with his best friend Martin Sustaita.
Keith upheld along time tradition of his family to join the US Army infantry after high school. He graduated from Fort Benning, GA on August 18, 2013. He was stationed in Fort Carson, CO in December 2013 and deployed to Operation Enduring Freedom Afghanistan in March 2014.
Keith sustained a head injury when an IED struck his vehicle and he was airlifted to the Kandahar hospital where he died. Staff Sgt. Benjamin Prange (Nebraska) was also killed and three other soldiers survived the explosion.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Harry and Edna Williams (Porterville) and Robert Painter (Australia); and his aunts, Pamela Williams (Porterville) and Marie Painter (New Zealand).
He is survived by his step-father, Mike Tuttle; step-mother Tara Williams; sisters, Samantha Williams and Chelsea Sestini; step-sisters, Alice Shabazian, and Maggie Boles; and step-brothers, Nick Boles and Christopher Tuttle; his brother in-law, Shaun Sesfini;and nieces and nephews Reagan, Trent and Greyson Sestini and Kenna Williams; grandmother, Jean Painter (Australia); and multiple aunts, uncles and cousins in Porterville, Australia and New Zealand.
Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 8, 2014, at Salser and Dillard Funeral Chapel in Visalia.
A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 9, 2014, at First Assembly of God Church, 3737 S. Akers, Visalia, followed by Military Honors and American Indian Service at El Diamante High School, 5100 W. Whitendale Ave., Visalia. Burial will be private.
A memorial tribute may be offered by logging onto: www.salseranddillard.com
SALSER & DILLARD FUNERAL CHAPEL
Visalia, California (559)635-1144
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for PVT. WILLIAMS
May 25, 2015
Hello
I am a High school student in Texas. I was researching brave fallen soldiers for Memorial Day. I saw Private First 1st Class Keith M. Williams on this page and felt great remorse for the loss of this great soldier. It gave me comfort knowing that we have people like Keith defending our country. It's a tragedy that someone like this had to leave the world so soon, but his bravery, honor, and love for his country will never be forgotten. I wish the family my deepest condolences, and let them know that Keith did an incredible thing.
Thank you for your service.
Priscilla C.
December 26, 2014
My condolences to the family. Though I don't know you, my brother died in Afghanistan in 2012. Rest in peace Keith and thank you for your service.
Charlie Gili
December 20, 2014
Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and to also let the Williams Family know that we recently sent Care Packages to American troops in the war zones. Each box carried a dedication sheet that includes the name, service information and a photo of your loved one, Keith M. Williams US Army Private 1st Class. We recognize that this is a humble tribute, but we wanted you to know that it is heartfelt and made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals in the youth hockey community and beyond. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
November 25, 2014
At a time of year, when we give thanks, I am thankful for soldiers such as Pvt. Keith Williams. He made the ultimate sacrifice for us. My thoughts are also with his family who also sacrificed. God Bless.
Bradley Prescott
November 6, 2014
To the family of PFC.Keith M. Williams,
My name is Bradley Prescott, I am a senior at Winfield High School in Winfield Al. I play football and baseball, this week we are hosting the first round of state playoffs. It is because of PFC. Kieth M. Williams sacrifices that I am able to play sports and go to school. His sacrifices and the sacrifices of other fallen soldiers give me the oppertunity to live happy and free. I am very sorry for your loss. PFC. Kieth M. Williams is a hero and will remain a hero to this country. If you would like to reply, please reply to [email protected]
Sincerely, Bradley Prescott
Judson Hunt
November 5, 2014
To PFC. Keith M. Williams, and the lives that he impacted:
I thank Keith for his sacrifice for our country. I thank Keith and everyone in the military for their sacrifice everyday.
I go to Winfield City High School. I play football, and I am the Student Body President. I am only able to participate in these activities because of those who sacrificed their lives before I was born. I thank them.
I am an 18 year old Senior at Winfield. I am writing on Keith's page as a project, and if anyone would like to contact me, you can do so at [email protected]
Lynne Neibert
August 22, 2014
Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers ([email protected] is an organization with groups throughout the country who work to send handmade prayer shawls and/or lap robes to families who have lost a loved one while serving our country. Members of Trindle Spring Lutheran Church of Mechanicsburg, PA would like to extend our sincere sympathy and to honor your loved one's sacrifice and memory by sending our prayers and comfort through a prayer gift which will be mailed to you. If you are interested, please contact me at [email protected] with the names and addresses of those who would like to receive one and which gift they would like to receive. We will send our gift as soon as possible. Also, if you know of any other families who are grieving the loss of a loved on who died while serving our country, please pass along my e-mail address. May God bless you and comfort you in the days ahead. Sincerely, Lynne
Heather Dunbar
August 21, 2014
It has been nearly a month since you were taken from us. We were very proud of you and will always be proud of you Keith. We were looking forward to next year when you were going to come visit but alas that day will never come in body but in spirit we know you are around us always. You are our Hero.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
"We Will Remember Them"
Miss you and love you always.
Aunty Heather, Uncle Barrie, Renee and Sophia xxxxx RIP sweet boy RIP xxxx
S MacDaniel
August 19, 2014
I know there are no words to say at this time, except how sorry that I am. My thoughts and prayers are with you always. Keith will never be forgotten.
For you every single soldier
Those who served so honorable
Your life was forever altered
While I'm home safe and free
I stand with grateful admiration
I stand respectful and so proud
I know I'm only a civilian
And I don't even know if it's allowed.
But I salute you; allow me the honor to salute you with permission let me say. Even though I hold no rank know that from my heart my humble gratitude comes from the deepest part. I salute you.
For those missing in action;for those who didn't make it home.
I know you're in God's presence you are not alone.
For every neatly folded flag;for every shattered family
I will do the only thing I know to dignify your memory.
I salute you, allow me the honor to salute you with permission let me say even though I hold no rank know that from my heart my humble gratitude comes from the deepest part.
I salute you.
I Salute You.
Suzanne MacDaniel,A Proud Aunt
SGT. David M.Fisher KIA 12/1/04 Iraq - - - -
Nathan Bergum
August 12, 2014
Keith-
The last time I seen you was on graduation day and told me about your intentions to join the ARMY. Then Kevin got word that you had given your life in service of our great nation. We all cryed when we heard the news of your sacrifice. You were a very important part of our life and we will miss you dearly. I salute you my ARMY brother, warrior and hero! Rest in peace and know that your name will live forever. We love you Brother....
S. Kronenwetter
August 12, 2014
To the Williams Family, Please accept my deepest condolences for the loss of your loved one and Hero Keith, and my sincerest gratitude for his service for our country.
August 11, 2014
Your sons face looks so familiar. I go to see alot of high school sports and programs. Such a smile. God bless you Keith, you will truly be missed. God bless your family and friends and the country you gave the ultimate sacrifice for. May the angels take you to paradise and present you to God the most high. Love Marilee Roadcap
Tim McGlasson
August 11, 2014
It was my educational pleasure to know Keith as my student in English his Senior year. He was the kind of kid who always kept me on my toes with that marvelous sense of humor of his. He once told me he spoke a Native American language so I asked him which tribe. He replied, "Navajo". When I finally figured it out (he is part of group from the Tule Tribe; the Navajo are in Arizona...he was no more Navajo than I am the King of Spain) l laughed for ten minutes. But that was Keith. His dry wit and ability to bring humor into your life were without peer. I wish I had a room full of Keiths to teach because life would never be dull. "Good night Sweet Prince. Flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."~Wm. Shakespeare
Lydia Hernandez
August 10, 2014
Such a brave young man, such a hero!! Thank You for your service! My condolence to your family. May the lord bless you all. Rest in peace Keith. God Bless!!
Linda Compo-Blazich
August 10, 2014
Pvt. Williams, thank you for your selfless act and willingness to defend our Country and defend our right for freedom. To you sweet Debbie, there are no words that can even come close to the sympathy and hurt I feel in my heart for you and your family. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Brenda Silva
August 9, 2014
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
By Lamaretta Simmons
Donald L. Johnson EM1(SS) USN Retired
August 9, 2014
I did not have the pleasure of knowing Keith, but standing with the crowd at El Diamante on 7/25, I found out what I'd missed. But like all who choose to serve, when Keith raised his hand and swore his Oath of Enlistment, he became my Brother. Thank you, Brother Keith, for your Service. Rest easy, we have the Watch. For Shipmate Frankie, Debbie, and all who mourn Keith's passing, we pray God's healing Grace flow upon you and ease your pain. And thank you for raising such a fine son, and for sharing him with us.
American Legion Post 18 / FRA Branch 261 Chaplain sends.
Sally Chambers
August 9, 2014
Prayers are with you and your family..May god show you the road to healing your pain
Jennifer dillon
August 9, 2014
Thank you Pvt.Keith Williams. .thank you for fighting for our freedoms
My heart breaks for your family as you and them have given the ultimate scarfice ...may you findpeace Iin the Kingdom of Heaven
The Malone Family
August 9, 2014
Thank you for protecting our country. We are truly sorry for the loss to your family.
Karla Gutierrez and family
August 8, 2014
Thank you for your service. May you rest in peace.
Madeleine Scroggin
August 8, 2014
I've known Keith in high school, and he was someone who easily lit up a room with his fun sense of humor and good heart. I am so honored and blessed to have known him, and proud to say that he gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country. My thoughts and prayers are for his family, thank you for your son's service. Welcome home, Keith.
Marty, Donna Medrano and Family
August 8, 2014
Condolences to Frankie and family. May to Lord comfort you and give you strength to overcome this horrific loss. May faith keep you grounded, I ask this in Jesus Name, Amen.
Shirley James
August 8, 2014
"You have our deepest sympathy on your loss. Your son made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of his country. He is our hero." Thank You PVT.Keith Williams May You Rest In Peace! Prayers go out to the Family!
BU3 (SCW) justin vanasen
August 8, 2014
R.I.P. brother
You payed the ultimate sacrifice to our country and for that I salute you.
Angela Vega
August 7, 2014
I pray to the Heavenly Father for peace, comfort, strength and love during this most difficult time. Thank you Keith for your service.
August 7, 2014
To Keith's family,
You raised a good man who gave the ultimate sacrifice for us all. We remember him from grade school through high school. He was a sweet, funny kid. Great sense of humor and always smiling. Seeing him ride around in Franks blue truck next to his dad, to watching him perform in drumline....He could bang that drum! We are truly sorry for your loss.
"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you" Philippians 1:3
The Thompson Family
Chris Peppers
August 7, 2014
Sending good thoughts and prayers to the Williams and Tuttle families. I am so sorry for the loss of your son. Thank your for your service Keith.
Carolyn Durham
August 7, 2014
For your services for fighting for our Country I am thankful and a prayer for the family of this brave Soldier May God Bless you and keep you during this time of sorrow
Heely Family
August 7, 2014
Thank you for your service. RIP Pvt. Williams. Thoughts and prayers for your family during this most difficult time.
Ann campiotti
August 7, 2014
Thank you for serving our country may you now be with the lord.
Koma Howard
August 7, 2014
Thank you for your service, may you rest in peace and the Lord comfort your family.
Angelica Contreras
August 7, 2014
Prayers with you and your family
August 7, 2014
God Bless you and your family. I am eternally grateful for your sacrifice. May you rest in peace.
Cassandra McCarter
August 7, 2014
Thank you for your service. May you rest in peace and my prayers be sent to your family.
August 7, 2014
Thank you for your service in keeping us free and safe from the enemy. May your family be comforted by their great memories of time spent with you.
Anaya Family
August 7, 2014
Many thoughts and prayers to your family and friends. Thank you for your service. God bless!
August 7, 2014
My prayers go out to your loved ones. Thankyou for your service. You are a brave hero to all. Incredibly thankful for the men and women who serve our country and fight for our freedom. May you rest in peace.
Kimberly Velasquez, USN
August 7, 2014
"...And I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me."
Rob Estoker
August 7, 2014
R.I.P. Pfc. Williams your mission is complete. It was truly a humbling honor to be a part of you coming home escort. I will be again honored to ride in your final journey escort this Saturday. God truly has a special place in Heaven for hero's such as yourself. My heart and prayers go out to your family..........
Elizabeth Abel
August 7, 2014
Thank you for serving our country and you will never be forgotten, may you RIP.
August 7, 2014
Thank you for your service! May you rest in peace dear boy.
Diana Shannon
August 7, 2014
Thank you for your service. May The Lord watch over your family during their time of loss.
HOOAH SOLDIER!
Karen Shank
August 7, 2014
Thank you for your service. May you rest in peace. Many prayers for your family and friends.
Tulare CA.
August 7, 2014
May your smile continue to shine over us as you look down from Heaven ,I did not know you personally your smile touched my heart as you gave your life on Earth to keep us free.
E La Tour
August 7, 2014
I'm sorry that I did not know you, you appeared to be an amazing young man, it would have been a great honor to have known you. Thank You for your service, thank you for buying our freedom with your life.
Souza's
August 7, 2014
Your light will always shine thru our hearts,souls,and eyes as we remember the true fond memories of the brave soldier who fought for our freedom. The true friend you committed yourself to be. The joy and laughs you brought to us all will never be forgotten but cherished as you will be in our hearts forever until we meet again in heaven. May God bless us all for even getting the chance to meet you and have you for a true friend and a awesome young man with a heart full of love and laughter! God Bless your family thru this enormous devastation. Thank you Keith for your bravery and life you gave up for our freedom. You are a true HERO and we love you kiddo !!
August 7, 2014
A true warrior! May your light forever shine. Thank you for your dedication, sacrifice and service to your country.
A proud American
August 7, 2014
I don't know you but Thank you for serving our country. God will bless you & your family. May your family take comfort in knowing you are in a far better place. Again THANK YOU so much for doing what you did.
August 6, 2014
Thank u for your service, bravery, but mostly thank u for your sacrifice. We're lost for words! Our hearts, love and prayers are with his family, You'll never be forgotten. Rest in peace, hero.
From: The Iglesias Family.
S. Vaughan
August 6, 2014
God Bless you for your service. God bless your family as well for their sacrifice. May God grant you peace!
August 6, 2014
RIP Keith. Thank you for your sacrifice. My prayers are with you in Heaven and your family
August 6, 2014
Our deepest sympathies to the Williams family.
Dad & Mom of a USMC SGT.
DINUBA, CA 93618
Dianne Ritter
August 6, 2014
Thank you for your honor, courage and sacrifice!! Heroes like you are why American's are free! God bless and comfort family and friends during this time of intense sorrow. My prayers are with all of you!! I salute you Pvt. Keith Williams!!
D. Burnett Family
August 6, 2014
We send our American love, condolences and prayers to you. We are grateful for your son's courage, strength and gift of life for us. God's blessings of strength to get up each day and go forward and love for one another as you grieve, reminisce of your sweet son and brother and for whatever you have need of through this tragedy. Words cannot express our sadness. Forever,With Grateful Hearts
Don & Maryann Cary
August 6, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Williams and Tuttle families during this difficult time. God Bless this family.
August 6, 2014
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
August 3, 2014
Our family is so sorry for your loss. We have been keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers. Keith's service will never be forgotten.
Ken & Elaine (Seefeldt) Marshall
Suring, WI
August 2, 2014
Our family is so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
The Kirton Family
Army CPL Brandon Kirton
KIA 5/18/11 - Afghanistan
M. Carpenter
August 1, 2014
To the family, friends, and military unit of Pfc. Williams, Please, accept my deepest condolences for your loss of Keith. We will not forget his brave service or ultimate sacrifice to defend freedom and protect our way of life. He is a true American hero. May he rest in Peace and may you have comfort and healing for your loss.
KATHY CODY
July 29, 2014
Keith, thank you for your sense of humor, your ability to make people smile and laugh, your joy in life and everything around you. Thank you for your patriotic heart and sense of duty to America. Thank you for defending our country, with honor and courage.Thank you for living on the right path, for being a good guy, for making everyone who knew you proud to say they did. To your family, there are no words to tell you how sorry I am that Keith is gone. Your loving son, brother and friend will always be remembered with gratitude and respect. God bless you and help you as you go on without your priceless treasure.
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